Three major storylines headed into Texas Tech football’s spring practice: Who will replace Jace Amaro?

In this file photo, Texas Tech head coach Kliff Kingsbury, center, speaks with his team during their spring college football game in Lubbock, Texas, Saturday, April. 20, 2013. (AP Photo/Stephen Spillman)

Texas Tech football begins spring practice Wednesday after heading into the off-season with a ton of steam.

Fresh off a 37-23 victory in the Holiday Bowl, the Red Raiders — like every team in America — have several intriguing storylines heading into practice.

While second-year Texas Tech coach Kliff Kingsbury has been notoriously tight lipped about personnel decisions and his depth chart, here are three things we hope to find out this spring:

1. Next man up? Every year it seems the Red Raiders have to replace a couple of dynamic playmakers on offense. This year will be no different, especially with the loss of unanimous All-American Jace Amaro (a projected first-round draft pick) and flanker Eric Ward (over 80 catches in three straight seasons with 31 total touchdowns). Luckily for Tech, guys like Bradley Marquez, Reginald Davis and Jakeem Grant are ready to take over the spotlight — Marquez and Davis on the outside, and Grant on the inside (although at 5-foot-6, Grant presents a much different threat from Amaro). Guys like wide receiver Devin Lauderdale and a trio of experienced running backs should continue to make the offense one of the best in the nation, assuming thy can mesh with quarterback Davis Webb.

2. Finally some stability. Defense has always been a punchline at Texas Tech, especially in recent years. The Red Raiders had a string of five different defensive coordinators in as many years before this spring, where Matt Wallerstedt returns for his second season. While Tech’s defense has never had the overpowering personnel capable of dominating the Big 12, it was tough to really gauge the unit’s progress with constant scheme changes. With Wallerstedt in for his second year, and with his first full recruiting class on its way, the Red Raiders’ defense can start to make a name for itself. However, Texas Tech must replace mainstays on defense, but junior college transfers, like safety Josh Keys (an early enrollee) and defensive lineman Rika Levi, should provide immediate help.

3. Competition level is high. Texas Tech was thin in both trenches last season, partly due to the change in coaching staff and partly due to uncontrollable circumstances (like injuries). The recent news that Rashad Fortenberry will be given an extra year of eligibility adds some much-needed depth to the offensive line. Guys on both sides of the line will be competing for playing time, and Kliff Kingsbury and company shouldn’t have to worry too much about one injury ruining a unit. There should be some players that jump out this spring and lay claim to the top of the depth chart.

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